Well aware of the emerging trend in our frenetic societies, happiness activists in Milan, London, Washington, DC and other major cities across the globe are adopting a proactive stance to share the message that days of disconnection are numbered.

Pharrell Williams has also contributed to the UN #HappySoundsLike music compilation. Image courtesy of evolverphoto

In public piazzas, community centres and on the street, they are connecting with people from all walks of life to share the message that each of us has the ability to make the world a happier place, with very little effort.

The United Nations has joined the Happiness Day initiative by launching a social media campaign to create the world’s happiest playlist, using #HappySoundsLike.

The UN poses the question: Does happiness have a sound? And, if so, what does it actually sound like?

Spearheading the effort, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said: 'On this day we are using the universal language of music to show solidarity with the millions of people around the world suffering from poverty, human rights abuses, humanitarian crises, and the effects of environmental degradation and climate change.'

Celebrities like Charlize Theron and Pharrell Williams have made personal contributions to the playlist, along with many other stars, including Lang Lang, Michael Douglas, Angelique Kidjo, James Blunt, Idris Elba, David Guetta, John Legend and Cody Simpson.

The International Day of Happiness is perfectly attuned to South African Tourism’s initiative, in which the country’s citizens, particularly those in the tourism and hospitality sectors, are encouraged to embrace foreign visitors by displaying an understanding of their culture and their holiday expectations, and making them feel welcome.